Tips for calculating the correct amount of sod and price
- The standard size of 1 piece of sod is 16″ x 24″.
- Add the price of 1 piece in dollars to calculate the total cost. This step is totally optional.
- The price of 1 piece of sod can be $0.825 to $2.34.
Welcome to our Sod Calculator! This tool is designed to help you estimate the amount of sod. You’ll need for your landscaping project, and a cost estimate to guide your budgeting. Simply enter your area’s dimensions, and we’ll do the rest. Below, find detailed information about choosing, installing, and maintaining sod.
Understanding Sod Basics
What is Sod?
Sod is the grass that is harvested with the layer of soil. The sod is also known as turf grass. This is a quick solution for installing lawns. Sod is used in various landscape projects. This way anyone can establish a mature and healthy lawn quickly. The sod is useful to increase the aesthetic of any place instantly. This is a quick way of installing grass instead of seeds that will take weeks to germinate.
Types of Sod
Here are the different types of sod available. Select according to your area and soil type:
Bermuda Grass
This grass is drought-resistant. It is best for warm and crowded areas such as sports fields or golf clubs. This grass grows fast and can bear heat and limited watering.
Kentucky Bluegrass
This grass is famous for its lush color and dense growth. Kentucky bluegrass is more suitable for cooler areas. The grass grows back vigorously after a year in the cooler season. This grass needs full sun to thrive but needs specific maintenance.
St. Augustine Grass
This grass is best for coastal areas. The appearance of the grass is very thick. This grass best thrives in warm and humid environments. The grass is easy to install but needs frequent watering and fertilization.
Zoysia Grass
This grass is easy to install and low maintenance. Zoysia grass is drought-resistant and can tolerate heat. Ideal for warm climates and crowded fields.
Fescue
This grass is famous for its ability to tolerate cold temperatures and grow in shady areas. The grass can grow in shades up to several meters. This is the perfect option for a garden that does not receive much sunlight.
Planning Your Project
Measuring Your Space
Here is the following guide on how you can measure your space effectively:
Sketch the Area
Draw a rough sketch of the area where you are planning to lay the sod. For a better understanding, divide the area into simple geometric shapes. Shapes such as squares, rectangles, or triangles.
Measure Length and Width
With the help of measuring tape, measure the length of each shape.
Calculate Square Footage
To calculate the square footage multiply each length by width. For a triangle use this formula (base x height / 2).
Add the Areas
Add up all the square footage to get the total square footage.
Account for Waste
Calculate an extra 5% to 10% sod for cuts and waste. You may need additional sod if your lawn has an irregular shape.
Choosing the Right Sod
Before choosing the sod you need to consider many factors. Here is the following guide.
Climate
Select a grass type suitable for your local environment; warm-season grasses do well in southern regions, while cool-season grasses are better for northern climates.
Soil Quality
Check the soil quality of your place and see if it is fit for the grass. Some grass can adjust in proper conditions and need fertile rich soil.
Sunlight Exposure
Choose the grass type according to the availability of sun exposure. Some grass needs full sun to thrive whereas some can grow in partial shades.
Foot Traffic
Choose the grass according to traffic. The grass is more used in places like sports fields. Choose the grass according to the use. For crowded areas, bluegrass is a good option.
Maintenance
See how much time you can invest in maintenance. Some grasses need more frequent care and maintenance.
Cost Factors
Price Factors
The cost of sod can vary based on several factors, as follows:
Type of Grass
Different grass with high maintenance comes with high price tags. Grasses such as Kentucky bluegrass are expensive. Whereas low-maintenance grass comes with low price tags such as Bermuda.
Availability
The cost of the grass is linked with its availability. If the grass has to be shipped from somewhere the cost will be high.
Season
The season can have a huge impact on the prices of grass. The prices can be increased in spring or summer. You might find discounts on sod in winter due to low demand.
Region
Cost can be linked with the climate and growing conditions of your region.
Saving on Sod Costs
Here is the guide on how to reduce expenses on your sod project:
Bulk Buying
Buying sod in large quantities can reduce the per-unit cost. If you have a large area to cover you can coordinate with others to buy in bulk.
Choosing a Less Expensive Grass Type
Choose a grass type that is both suitable for your climate and budget-friendly. Fras like Bermuda can be budget-friendly. This grass can cover areas very well and is durable.
Flexibility on Timing
Choose the time for sod installation when it’s less in demand. In seasons like winter, the demand is low. Supplier may offer you the discount price.
Prepare the Site Yourself
You can reduce the installation cost by preparing the land by yourself. Make sure the land is clear of debris and ready to receive sod installation.
Maintenance Tips
Watering Your Sod
Proper watering is very essential for new sod and already installed sod. Here is the following guide:
New Sod
After installation of sod water the sod for the first 2 weeks twice a day. The best time for watering is morning and evening. Avoid overwatering. The water should be enough to cover the first few inches of soil.
Established Lawns
Once the sod is installed, reduce the water frequency. Water the grass as per the climate needs. Let the roots penetrate deep into the soil.
Fertilizing and Mowing
Fertilization and mowing are very important for the grass to stay healthy. Here is the following guide:
Fertilizing
After installation, wait for 4 to 6 weeks. Once the roots have taken hold in the soil, apply the fertilizer. Use liquid-based fertilizer that boosts growth. Later you can apply the fertilizer as per season demand and grass nutrients need.
Mowing
You can mow the grass when the roots are penetrated deep into the soil. Do not remove more than one-third of the grass in the first session. Mowing will promote healthy and thick grass growth.
Conclusion
We hope our sod calculator has helped you determine the necessary amount of sod. By providing a clear cost estimate for your landscaping needs. With these details in hand, you’re ready to move forward with your project confidently. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for any extra guidance or to tackle any specific questions. you can also check out our other landscaping resources.
